Flights to Pagadian, Zamboanga Peninsula from NT$2,256

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. Take a peek at these handy tips that will get your Pagadian escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for an easy trip through security. Look out Pagadian, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.